CalFresh benefits changes 2026 will reshape food access for immigrant families while increasing work requirements and demand for local food banks.
Certain groups of noncitizens are not ineligible to receive CalFresh benefits starting April 1.
President Trump signed the new law, House Resolution 1, as part of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act on July 4, 2025, which outlines a spending plan for the federal government, including funding towards SNAP and CalFresh. The act reduces funding for various federal programs.
The new law will limit CalFresh benefits to certain groups of noncitizens come April.
Who will be ineligible for CalFresh:
*An asylee
*A refugee
*A parolee (unless you are a Cuban or Haitian Entrant)
*An individual with a deportation or removal withheld
*A conditional entrant
*A victim of trafficking
*A battered noncitizen
*Iraqis and Afghans with Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs)
*Certain Afghan nationals granted parole between July 31, 2021, and Sept. 30, 2023
*Certain Ukrainian nationals granted parole between Feb. 24, 2022, and Sept. 30, 2024.
For those currently receiving CalFresh benefits affected by the changes, their benefits will be re-evaluated during the next recertification period.
This will not be the only change coming to CalFresh benefits this year.
In June, some adult CalFresh recipients will be required to work 80 hours per month or participate in activities such as training or volunteering to get or keep CalFresh benefits, according to the County.
CalFresh recipients impacted by the change should receive a text message from the County with information and resources.
How to Find Free Food Resources in LA County
A Network of Support Across LA County
The Food Bank works with a network of more than 600 partner agencies, including food pantries, soup kitchens, and community organizations. These partners distribute the majority of food across LA County, ensuring that resources reach communities efficiently and locally.
Because LA County is so large, finding food assistance close to home makes access easier and ensures resources reach as many neighbors as possible.
Find Free Food Resources Near You
Using the Food Pantry Locator
Visit LAFoodBank.org/findfood to quickly find food assistance near you. Simply enter your address to see a list of nearby partner agencies.
Each location may have different distribution times and requirements, so it is a good idea to check their website or call ahead to confirm details before visiting.
Call 211
If you are unable to access the internet, you can dial 211 to be connected to local food resources and other support services.
